William Rhoades, of Facilities Management is the September Employee of the Month

October 06, 2016

(L to R) President John R. Broderick and William Rhoades

William Rhoades, currently a trades/utility worker for Facilities Management's Grounds Department, is Old Dominion University's Employee of the Month for September. Rhoades has been with ODU since April, 2015.

Rhoades was recognized in part for extra efforts he made in the days leading up to the spring 2016 commencement. While he was performing his regular duties, Rhoades noticed that steps leading to a couple of buildings on Kaufmann Mall, needed power washing. Without instruction or prompting, Rhoades power washed both buildings' steps because he wanted to make sure the commencement walk from Webb Center looked perfect.

Rhoades power washes other buildings too although it is not part of his regular duties; he does this because he cares about the University. Rhoades has also found better ways to clear walk ways of debris without disrupting others while completing his other assigned tasks in the most efficient way possible.

Additionally, Rhoades' efforts towards community service are exemplary. He frequently helps when he sees someone who needs assistance; all while completing his duties on time.

"It is a joy to work with William every day, William is dedicated to his job and his work," said Rhoades' supervisor Donald Jones. "He has always been a team player, always willing to help another person whether he has been asked to or not. He always follows all of his supervisor's instructions with a smile. He is truly a part of the ODU family."

DETAILS ABOUT THE EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH PROCESS

The University Employee of the Month Selection Committee encourages employees to nominate their outstanding, "go the extra mile" colleagues and employees. This program is designed to acknowledge and reward employees whose accomplishments and/or demeanor exemplify excellence, quality service and commitment to ODU. Classified and AP faculty employees receive a framed certificate from the president, $175 and one day of leave. Hourly winners get $250, since they are not eligible to receive recognition leave.

Note: The selection committee needs specific examples that relate to each applicable criterion in order to select a nominee for the award. Nominations remain active for six months from date of submission and nominators may submit additional documentation to support a nominee during the active six months.

The criteria used to nominate an employee include the following:

• An outstanding accomplishment that benefited the department/students.
• Extraordinary service to internal and/or external customers.
• Inspiring initiative/leadership.
• Enthusiasm/energy given to assigned work.
• Teamwork.
• Exemplary efforts to nurture a climate of care, concern and civility.
• Creative innovations to service, process or work tools.

For more information contact Tony Belk at jbelk@odu.edu or 683-3046, or visit ODU's Employee of the Month website.